Cockayne Hatley Hall in Bedfordshire is an elegant 15th century period property for sale that was often visited by Peter Pan author J.M Barrie while he was writing the famous children's novel.
This beautiful family home has been modernised over the years, but still firmly clings onto its Georgian heritage. With over 10,000 sq ft of accommodation set over two floors, 16-acres of gardens, an orchard, 10 bedrooms, five bathrooms and five reception rooms, it is completely magnificent.
It's thought that J.M Barrie — who wrote the much-loved novel in 1902 — created the character Wendy during his visits to the countryside home. The Henley family, who previously owned the home, buried their young daughter at the church after she tragically died aged five. But after she passed away, Barrie wanted to keep a part of her alive in the book — and created Wendy in her memory.
Drive along the winding narrow path and you'll pass the quaint 13th Century Baptist Church on your way (it's here where the Henley family are buried). As you approach the property entrance, the rolling Bedfordshire countryside will capture your attention. Once inside, the elegant oak staircase and honeycomb windows serve up a flavour of what's to come.
The ground floor comprises a formal sitting room, study, a further reception room and a large country-style kitchen/diner. Through double doors you'll discover the annexe, which has its own sitting room, kitchen, dining room, bedroom and a delightful spa complete with a jacuzzi bath.
Expect wooden flooring and high ceilings throughout the home, plus plenty of other lovely features such as a wood burner, bright blue AGA oven, freestanding bath and a pool table.
The gardens are indeed tremendously spectacular. 'With so many acres of land, we can keep horses here, and ducks and chickens too, providing fresh eggs for breakfast every morning,' the current owners explain.
Looking to move to a home with character, history and charm? Then this grand property is just for you.
This property is currently on the market for £2,000,000 via Fine & Country.
Take a tour of the beautiful home below...
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16 Christmas wreaths perfect for the festive season
One of our top picks this Christmas has to be this luxury wreath from Etsy. From supporting a small business, to the on-trend red velvet bow that completes this look, we would be thrilled to adorn our front door with this wreath.
Make a statement with this traditional Arena Flowers wreath, featuring dried oranges, cinnamon, pine cones, and a giant red satin bow. It's the ultimate way to bring the scent of Christmas into your home.
This woodland-inspired festive wreath features delicate brass leaves for a subtle and dainty look. Unlike most wreaths, this is designed to last a lifetime, making it a real heirloom piece.
Ring in (quite literally!) the festive season with this contemporary large gold wreath with metal bells.
Create a picture-perfect Christmas with this large winter berry wreath. We love this elegant design, featuring green foliage mixed with seasonal berries, pine cones and 50 warm LED lights.
If you don't want to go down the festive route, choose this beautiful dried wreath from Bloom & Wild. Putting a rustic twist on traditional festive decorations, this delightful wreath combines a mix of wild grasses with dainty blooms.
Festive berries and artificial green sprigs intertwine in this timeless Christmas wreath. And at 60cm, it's one of the larger options on the market this year.
This half wreath from Lights4Fun offers a more pared-back approach. Hanging from a metal loop, it features faux foliage, eucalyptus, blueberries and LED lights for an intricate look.
Dibor Deck The Halls Luxury Christmas Wreath
We love the deep red colours on this wreath – it'll make an impressive style statement on your front door. Decorated with natural materials, the pine cones have been stained in rich red and green tones. Bright red berries and bundles of cinnamon sticks complete the look.
Bring the outdoors in with this white berry wreath from Amazon. Hang on your front door to welcome guests or place on your dinner table and pop LED candles in the middle for an elegant tablescape.
Embrace the beauty of winter with this whisper-soft Christmas wreath. We love the red and lilac tones used here, entwined with gypsophila flowers and green eucalyptus.
For something unique, pick up this multicoloured bauble wreath from Rockett St George. It features a mixture of shiny, matte and glittery baubles in a range of beautiful hues.
This wonderful wreath is giving us winter wonderland vibes, thanks to its pine green foliage, rustic pine cones, berries and frosted finish.
Densely packed with red berries, wooden stars, shiny baubles and an abundance of real woodland pine cones, this preserved wreath is guaranteed to make a statement when placed on your front door.
Sometimes, less is more. With a traditional look, this gorgeous Christmas wreath features pine green faux foliage and rich red berry detailing.
